Stories
Seoul's Public Transport Model Key to Solving Bengaluru Traffic: Sharath Bache Gowda
- •KEONICS chairman Sharath Kumar Bache Gowda advocates for public transport over flyovers to solve Bengaluru's traffic woes, citing Seoul's successful shift.
- •Gowda highlighted Seoul initially built extensive road infrastructure but later transitioned to a mass transport system, even removing some earlier constructions.
- •He fully supports Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya's call for expanded public transport to tackle congestion, noting traffic is a common issue across Indian cities.
- •Surya pointed to Tokyo's high public transport usage (80% of commutes) as a model, aiming for 70% in Bengaluru through metro, rail, buses, and improved walkability.
- •Gowda suggested considering mobility as a fundamental right, referencing Brazil's constitution, to ensure policy focuses on accessible transport for all.
Key Questions Answered
Sharath Kumar Bache Gowda stated that Bengaluru's traffic issues cannot be resolved by building more flyovers, bridges, and tunnels alone, pointing out that Seoul initially built similar infrastructure before shifting to a mass public transport model and removing those structures.
Bengaluru's Comprehensive Mobility Plan aims to have 70% of total trips made through public transport, which requires greater investment in metro and suburban rail capacity, an expanded bus fleet, and better walkability.
Sharath Bache Gowda suggested that India should consider amending its constitution to recognize mobility as a fundamental right, pointing out that Brazil's constitution already takes this approach because people cannot function without proper mobility.
